Speaking of People

Speaking of People

Article excerpt

James H. Speed PRESIDENT & CEO NORTH CAROLINA MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

James H. Speed, Jr. is president and chief executive officer of North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company, the oldest and largest insurance company in America with its roots in the African-American community. Founded in 1898 in Durham, N.C., the company was a cornerstone of America's "Black Wall Street" and boasts more than 350,000 policyholders. "In corporate America, North Carolina Mutual is a preferred diversity partner," says Speed. "This fact coupled with our sustained commitment to individual policyholders since 1898 drives our core business." Speed, 52, has held a variety of executive positions at other companies, including senior vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer of Hardee's Food Systems, Inc., and certified public accountant at Deloitte & Touche. He received a bachelor of science degree from North Carolina Central University and a master's in business administration from Atlanta University. Speed is a member of several organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the National Association of Black Accountants. He serves on several boards, including the Central Children's Home of North Carolina and Communities in Schools of North Carolina. He lives in Raleigh, N.C., with his wife, Thedora Baker Speed, with their daughter, Kiera.

Pamela Alexander DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND FUND OPERATIONS, FORD MOTOR CO. FUND

Pamela Alexander is director of community development and fund operations for Ford Motor Company Fund, one of the largest corporate foundations in the nation. She is a member of Ford's corporate affairs staff, and is responsible for Ford Fund's outreach to key communities and organizations across the country. She also oversees Ford Fund's business operations. Prior to this new position, Alexander held a variety of positions in the Ford Motor Company Governmental Affairs office. …